Eight of the best secluded and affordable places to stay in Andalucia, Spain

"Near Gergal, in the eastern mountains bordering the Sierra de los Filabres, this Belgian-owned bed and breakfast has three charming rooms with ample outside space, views and a pool. Although isolated, it has unbeatable access to regional highlights including Europe's only desert, which surrounds the old film studios of Tabernas; Almeria's stupendous fortress; and the wild beaches of Cabo de Gata."

"These are idyllic, tranquil settings in which to de-stress and recharge, hike, ride, cycle, cook, swim or simply stargaze the rural skies here are blissfully free of light pollution. Nor are cultural highlights ever far away, whether in Granada, Cordoba or Seville. Starry nights at Casa Mimi Casa Mimi is isolated but with great access to regional highlights."

"Mediterranean dinners (25) at Casa Mimi are on request and use seasonal produce, guaranteed by these former restaurateurs, Priscilla and Ben. The entire property of four bedrooms can be rented. Doubles from 70 B&B, casamimi.net Hiking and biking from Hostal Pampaneira Old-school Andalucia Time-travel to old-school Andalucia in Las Alpujarras, the foothills of the Sierra Nevada."

"Almost 50 years old with local furnishings to match, this modest, 15-room family hotel overlooks the steep, whitewashed village of Pampaneira on dizzying bends high above Orgiva an enclave for alternative lifestyles. Centuries ago, the Berbers developed farming in the area and Pampaneira's intricate layout. The restaurant cooks hearty mountain produce"

Outsiders have long been drawn to Andalucía’s hills and valleys, including North African Moors whose influence shaped land and culture. More recently, northern European visitors have helped create small, distinctive guesthouses and Spanish-owned properties focused on relaxation and outdoor pursuits. Rural areas provide tranquil settings for hiking, riding, cycling, cooking, swimming, and stargazing, with skies largely free of light pollution. Cultural highlights remain accessible, including Granada, Córdoba, and Seville. Near Gergal in the eastern mountains, a Belgian-owned bed and breakfast offers three rooms, views, a pool, and access to regional attractions such as Tabernas, Almería’s fortress, Cabo de Gata, and the Calar Alto observatory. In Las Alpujarras, a family hotel overlooks Pampaneira and offers hearty mountain produce.

Read at www.theguardian.com